On Friday at 10:53 a.m. the National Weather Service issued a wind advisory valid for Saturday between 2 a.m. and 9 p.m. for Marion, Lamar, Fayette, Winston, Walker, Blount, Etowah, Pickens, Tuscaloosa, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, Sumter, Greene, Hale, Perry, Bibb, Chilton, Marengo, Dallas, Autauga and Lowndes counties.
The weather service adds, “Northwest winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph expected.”
“Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Trees could be blown down and a few power outages may result. Frostbite and hypothermia will occur if unprotected skin is exposed to these temperatures. An extended period of subfreezing temperatures could cause pipes to burst,” says the weather service. “Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution. Secure outdoor objects. Dress in layers including a hat, face mask, and gloves if you must go outside. Keep pets indoors as much as possible. Make frequent checks on older family, friends, and neighbors. Ensure portable heaters are used correctly. Do not use generators or grills inside. To prevent freezing and possible bursting of pipes they should be wrapped, drained, or allowed to drip slowly.”
High wind alerts: What each level signifies
When it comes to high wind alerts, staying informed is essential. Here’s a breakdown of the three-tiered alert system from the weather service and what each level entails:…